WASHINGTON, - In response to the devastation caused by the Jan. 12
earthquake in Haiti, there's been an outpouring of goodwill and a desire to
help victims.
But not all urgent appeals for aid being broadcast on radio and television,
online and at social networking sites are legitimate, a consumer expert with
the U.S. Federal Trade Commission warned in an interview for the Jan. 21
American Forces Press Service weekly news podcast.
Carol Kando-Pinedo said the best way to provide immediate help is to donate
money directly to established national relief organizations that have the
experience and means to deliver aid. It makes sense to deal with well-known
groups, but it's important to check credentials, she added.
"Be wary of charities with names that sound like familiar or nationally known
organizations," she said. "Some phony charities use names that sound or look
like those of respected, legitimate organizations."
Other tips include declining unsolicited e-mail, phone call or text requests
for money and requests for personal or financial information. Often, "scam
artists use this information to commit fraud against you," the consumer
expert said.
She added, "Don't give or send cash. For security and tax record purposes,
contribute by check or credit card. Write the official name of the charity on
your check."
Kando-Pinedo also had advice for people who wish to donate supplies.
"Before collecting any goods, be sure to contact a legitimate charity and
find out if that's what's needed, if they can accept the goods and distribute
them where it's needed," she explained. "If they lack that infrastructure,
your goods won't get to needy people."
To get a list of charities for Haiti that meet the Better Business Bureau's
standards, Kando-Pineda recommended visiting the Web site,
www.bbb.org/charity. The Wise Giving Alliance at give.org and GuideStar at
guidestar.org also are good sources for screening charities, she said.